Misha was kidnapped.
And in the city, at that.
Although it sounded like something serious had happened, I calmly confirmed the rest of the story.
If it was true, it wouldn't make sense for Ainar to be sleeping peacefully in her room.
"Kidnapped? Explain properly. What happened? When did it happen?"
"It happened yesterday!"
The incident occurred just a day ago.
Ainar and Misha had a simple meal outside and were on their way back, she said.
But when they arrived at the inn, guess what?
Beastmen dressed in black were waiting for Misha.
"Ah! From what I heard, they seemed to be from Misha's family!"
If it was her family, then it must have been the master who sent them.
"...So?"
"What do you mean 'so'? Those beastmen whispered something to Misha and then dragged her away!"
Hmm, can you really call that 'dragging her away'?
I asked to confirm.
"Didn't Misha say anything to you?"
"She said she would be back tonight, so I should just spend a day alone. Ah! She also told me to go greet Bjorn… but I was worried and couldn't sleep well, so I overslept!"
I couldn't help but chuckle.
Leaving aside the part about oversleeping, she even left a message before leaving, so how is this a kidnapping?
I asked, and I got a rather interesting answer.
"Misha looked like she really didn't want to go! But if that's not a kidnapping, then what is it?!"
To call it a kidnapping because they took someone who didn't want to go, it's typical barbarian logic.
However, I'm also a barbarian.
"Right, Misha was kidnapped."
I know how pointless it is to argue with a barbarian about whether it's a kidnapping or not.
"Right? I was so upset because Aruru said it was nothing!"
"What did Raven say?"
"She said to wait at home until Bjorn came back and not do anything stupid. So I haven't even reported it to the police yet!"
Okay, she handled it well.
It's best to leave barbarians to other barbarians.
If that doesn't work, it's best to not talk at all.
"So! What are we going to do, Bjorn! We have to go raid that place, right? Misha is our companion!!"
If we raid that place, who knows what kind of trouble might happen?
I said firmly,
"Misha is also a warrior. We have to give her time to handle it on her own."
"That's… you're right!"
Ainar easily agreed without being stubborn after I persuaded her in a barbarian-like way.
"But aren't you hungry? It's morning."
"Of course, I'm starving!"
First, I had breakfast with Ainar.
And I checked what happened while I was gone.
There wasn't anything special.
Just training, eating, and home, repeated every day.
It seemed like they even decided to skip the regular meetings with Raven and the bear-like man until I came back.
"Ah, Misha said that Bjorn is amazing. It might not seem like it, but she said Bjorn is the center of the team, and they can't unite without him!"
"Uh… I see."
I feel a sense of embarrassment.
Well, it's a hundred times better than them badmouthing me behind my back…
I changed the subject.
"Did Misha leave money for food?"
"Uh, but I spent it all."
"…I'll leave some money, so make sure to eat well until tonight."
"Are you leaving? Without waiting for Misha?"
"Nothing will change even if I just stay here. I have to do my work. Misha would want me to do that too."
After finishing the meal, I sent Ainar back to her room and went out.
My first destination was the Magic Tower.
"Ah, you're back? How's your body?"
"Thanks to the antidote the Moselan gave me, I seem to be fine."
"That's good to hear. You've worked hard. Anyway, you heard about Miss Kaltstein, right?"
"Yeah. I'll go check on her if she doesn't come back today, so don't worry."
"I wasn't worried from the beginning. Miss Ainar is the strange one, why is she making such a fuss when she just went to her family's place?"
I smiled bitterly and kept my mouth shut.
Unlike Raven, I know about Misha's situation with her family.
So I can't help but be worried.
"More importantly, you said you couldn't do the settlement because I wasn't here? Let's meet tomorrow."
"What if Miss Kaltstein is late?"
"I'll come back and let you know."
After briefly catching up, we set a time and place to meet and parted ways.
The next place I headed to was the bear-like man's bar.
"Oh, you're finally back. You've worked hard."
"Anything happen while I was gone?"
"Nothing worth mentioning. But shouldn't I be the one asking that? Were you okay while you were in Bifron?"
"It wasn't bad. It's a comfortable place to live."
Just like with Raven, I briefly caught up with the bear-like man and then set a time and place to meet.
"I'll finally get that money."
"Sorry for making you wait. You could have taken it earlier."
"No, this kind of thing should be done when everyone is present to avoid any disputes. And besides, it's not like you couldn't come because you were busy having fun."
"Thank you for understanding. Then I'll be going."
I hesitated for a moment after leaving the bar.
I have quite a bit of time until evening, so what should I do? After organizing my thoughts, I headed towards the library.
It's the best place to kill time…
…and I also have someone to check on.
"…Bjorn Yandel."
Ragna freezes as soon as she sees me after I arrive at the library.
"It's been a while, hasn't it?"
I ask nonchalantly with a smile.
And I was about to explain why I hadn't shown up for 20 days.
But Ragna spoke first.
"I heard. You were exiled to Bifron for using an ability in the city and entering the labyrinth without permission."
Oh, she knew.
Well, it's a story that became quite famous since it was a political punishment, from what I heard at the Round Table.
"I'm glad you returned safely. And I'm sorry."
An apology that doesn't make sense in this context.
Ragna speaks cautiously as I tilt my head in confusion.
"I asked my butler if there was anything we could do to help, but he said it couldn't be helped…"
I still don't understand.
Why is she apologizing, and what's a butler?
Ragna shuts her mouth as if she made a mistake when I ask again.
So I don't pry further.
She wouldn't tell me anyway.
'…It seems like she's talking about her family.'
My waning interest in Ragna is reignited.
A mage in her early twenties, at least 5th-grade or higher.
The aura of wealth that's evident from her clothes and staff.
And the butler she just mentioned.
I was unsure because she's working as a librarian…
…but she's definitely a noble.
But…
'…That's also strange.'
I looked into it out of curiosity before.
There's no noble family with the last name 'Peprok'.
Then who the hell is she?
"…Are you going to read any books?"
"Ah, right. I was planning to."
Ragna changes the subject, perhaps because she's uncomfortable with my staring.
Therefore, I also just go inside to read books.
'Well, I'll find out later if I have the chance.'
It's not like she did anything to harm me.
And it wouldn't be right for me, an outsider, to pry into her family matters when she doesn't want to talk about them.
Our current relationship isn't bad.
'…I couldn't find the Compendium series again today.'
I get up after reading books for a while, until the sky beyond the window darkens.
I've been occasionally looking for the Compendium since I found it here by chance, but I couldn't find it again this time either.
"Are you leaving?"
"Someone is waiting for me."
"…I see."
I then return to the inn and have dinner with Ainar. And I ask her what she did today.
"Today? I took a nap, and then I went to the sanctuary because I was bored."
"The sanctuary?"
"It's fun teaching the young warriors. It brings back memories."
Although she doesn't seem much different from before…
…her combat power has increased significantly.
"Let's go together next time. Everyone wants to see you. It's already been 20 days."
"Okay, let's go together next time."
I readily agree since I've also been visiting the sanctuary from time to time to provide early education after declaring that I would become the chieftain.
I need to build support within the tribe beforehand.
"Huhu, the young warriors will be happy."
As expected of barbarians, the meal is already over by the time we finish our conversation. However, we don't go back to our rooms and wait on the 1st floor, which also serves as a dining hall.
Because Misha hasn't returned yet.
'Did something really happen?'
I get more worried as night deepens, but fortunately, Misha appears after about an hour. She's wearing black clothes, unlike her usual preference for bright colors.
"Huh? Bjorn?"
"It's Misha!! Misha is back!!"
Ainar immediately runs over and hugs Misha.
"Ack! Stop it. I'm not in the mood!"
Misha sighs and pushes Ainar away.
And she comes and sits in front of me.
"…Sorry. I was originally going to wait for you out front."
"It's fine. I'm not a child. More importantly, how did it go? I heard from Ainar that something happened."
"Ah, that…"
Misha glances at Ainar, trailing off.
"Ainar, go upstairs and sleep."
"Eek? Why?"
"Tsk."
"Okay! I'll go to sleep!!"
We talk after sending Ainar away.
"So why did your family call for you?"
"That's… one of my older brothers died, so I had to attend the funeral. I'm still a member of that family."
"So it was because of a funeral."
Contrary to my worries, it doesn't seem like they forcefully took her away.
But there's one thing that's strange.
"That's odd. At this time?"
It's not right after the labyrinth closed.
But a funeral at this time?
It means something happened in the city that could have killed someone.
"Don't worry about it. He was already sick. He always had to call a priest for treatment."
"So it wasn't the guy from the Floor Master incident."
I ask directly,
"Then who was it? Judging by your gloomy expression, was it that older brother who you said took care of you?"
"…You probably don't know him. I never talked about him."
"Really?"
Since she didn't talk about him, he must have been one of the guys who bullied and ignored Misha.
Then why is she so depressed?
"Now that I see it, something else must have happened besides the funeral."
"…How did you know?"
I subtly change my words, thinking she would get angry if I said I could tell just by looking at her face.
"If it were just because of the funeral, there would have been no reason to send Ainar away."
"You're only perceptive in these aspects."
"…Just tell me. What happened?"
"That's…"
Misha sighs deeply and continues,
"Father… no, that bastard wants to see you again."
Why can't everyone just leave me alone?
__________________
The master of the Kaltstein family wants to see me.
I wonder if he found a new clue about the Frost Spirit Ring…
"Anyway, that's that. You don't have to go. I already refused firmly."
But it seems like Misha already took care of it, so I don't have to worry about it anymore. She said she told him to come find me himself if he wanted to meet me.
If there's no news, it means nothing happened.
'If he really comes… I'll listen to what he has to say and then decide. It seems like it would just be troublesome if I go.'
Then this matter is settled.
"Ugh, the more I think about it, the angrier I get. What the hell does that bastard think I am? I'm never going back, even if he calls me for a funeral or whatever."
After that, I chat with Misha, who's burning with her newfound resolve for independence, and then go to bed.
And the next afternoon…
"It's been a while since we've all gathered. How have you all been?"
All the members of Team Apple Nark are gathered in one place.
The location is the same three-story bar where we've been meeting since the first meeting.
The goal is the final settlement, which we haven't been able to do yet.
"I heard about it back then, but I want to hear it again in detail. What's the total income?"
"Including the 'Foxfire Knot' that was sold a few days ago, it's 159,000,000 stones."
"Does that include the service fee we received from them?"
"Yes. I thought about it, and we ended up killing them all, right? It would be ridiculous to claim the service fee we received beforehand as my share now. So I just deducted the cost of the test tube."
Well, it's loot that would have ended up in our hands after the battle anyway.
'Still, it's unexpected. Honestly, I thought she would claim it as her share.'
She's become a bit more lenient.
At least compared to when we first met.
"Anyway, I've organized the final settlement details here. It will be easier to talk if you look at this."
We start the settlement, looking at the document Raven prepared, complete with receipts.
The magic stone income is distributed equally.
The loot from the battle with the explorers is also distributed equally.
However, the herbs we gathered in the Doppelganger Forest are classified as special loot, so Raven gets 40%.
The potions aren't sold and are classified as shared items.
Thanks to the well-organized document, the complicated settlement proceeds smoothly.
And…
"30 million stones…"
A huge sum of 30 million stones per person, with slight variations, ends up in our hands.
It's an unprecedented income.
But now it's time to pay up.
"Alright, then only the individual loot settlement is left. Actually, I had some time, so I roughly organized this too. I set the prices at about 70% of the average market price, so it will be much cheaper than buying them."
Raven looks at each of us in turn and says,
"First, Miss Kaltstein. The Half-Troll leather boots with 'Acceleration' and 'Size Adjustment' enchantments are 2.1 million stones. The Laetium necklace with 'Cold Enhancement' engraving is 2.7 million stones. So it's 4.8 million in total. But we have to subtract Miss Kaltstein's share… so you just have to pay 3.84 million stones."
"Ugh…"
"Miss Ainar, the expandable backpack is 1.5 million… and that's it. Please pay 1.2 million stones."
"Keuh."
"Mr. Urikfrit, the subspace quiver is 2.1 million stones, and the steel large breastplate is 550,000 stones… But why did you take the breastplate?"
"…I'm going to enchant it with the 'Size Adjustment' spell and have Iron Bear wear it."
"That's not a bad idea. It would be annoying to equip it every time you summon him. Anyway, you have to pay 2.12 million stones."
Everyone except for Raven, who didn't choose any individual loot, puts the designated amount of money on the table without complaint.
And then it's finally my turn.
"Finally, Mr. Yandel."
I wonder how much I'll have to pay.
"First, the Idium greaves, 3.1 million stones. No. 8667 Outlaw of the Wasteland, 3.3 million stones."
"Wait, exclude Outlaw of the Wasteland. I'm keeping that as a shared team item, not my personal loot."
"…Shared team item?"
"It's a useful item when we encounter that bastard on the 5th floor. It's better to keep it for then."
"Hmm."
Raven looks at me like a tax collector looking at a tax evader.
But in the end, her decision is 'YES'.
"It's a convincing argument. Although I feel like I'm being tricked. Then let's move on."
Before I can even feel relieved that I saved some money, Raven moves on to the last item.
The highlight of this settlement.
"The Manticore essence. And No. 2988 Guardian Corps Insignia."
"······."
"The average exchange price for the Manticore essence is about 50 million stones, but I've already deducted the test tube cost and calculated it at the guild's listed price."
"So, what's the listed price?"
"32 million stones."
Damn it.
So if we apply the usual 70% discount, and then subtract one-fifth since I'll get 20% back as my share after paying…
"You just have to pay 17,920,000 stones for the Manticore essence."
It's still expensive.
"…What about the Guardian Corps Insignia?"
"The average exchange price is 52 million stones."
So the price hasn't changed much from the game.
If we apply the discount, the final price is 29,120,000 stones.
"Then if we add the Idium greaves, it's a total of 48,776,000 stones."
Raven smiles and continues,
"Do you usually save money?"
"...."
I keep my mouth shut.
And I look at Ainar.
"Huh? Why are you suddenly looking at me?"
"Ainar, how much did you borrow from me…?"
"You, you're taking it back…!!"
No, I'm getting it back.
____________________
It was a truly record-breaking expedition.
However, after paying everything, I was still short, even after using all the money I had saved.
The amount was too big to pay in full, even after adding the money I lent to Ainar.
Of course, it wasn't a problem.
"Ainar, lend me some more money while you're paying me back."
"Uh, uh…? But it's not good to have money transactions between companions—"
"Ah, I'm paying you back."
"Ah, okay…!"
"Misha, can you also lend me some?"
"Ugh, how much are you short?"
I covered the remaining 13 million stones with credit loans from Ainar and Misha.
I've become a debtor.
When will I ever pay this back?
Should I hope to encounter a marauder in the labyrinth?
"I'm rich now!!!!"
Ainar, who was dejected for a moment after lending me money, started spending lavishly.
Well, is it really 'lavishly'?
Although she bought snacks without hesitation, the prices were so low that it was hard to make a dent in her finances no matter how much she ate.
"Bjorn, what should I do with this money?"
"Just keep it for now. We'll buy new equipment when we get back."
"Okay."
"Oh! Me too! I want new equipment too!"
"Hold off this month. We're going to craft a few items, but they won't be finished until before the labyrinth opens."
Since the settlement was delayed, we decided to postpone spending money until next month.
We have a lot of money now, so I'm planning to get equipment that we can use until the 7th floor, even if it means only getting one or two pieces.
Of course, I can't tell them to spend it all on that.
"But don't be too stingy and spend it on things you want to do. That's what you earned it for."
"Huh? Is, is that okay?"
What does she think I am?
Although growth is important, I don't intend to make them give up on their entire lives.
"It seems like you have something you want to do."
"Yeah."
"Why are you looking at me like that? It's your money."
"It's not just… because of that…"
"...?"
Misha speaks cautiously as I look at her with a questioning gaze.
"How about… we move?"
"…What?"
"We're earning good money now, so I thought it would be better to move to a nicer place… And we can't even cook here."
Hmm, so that's why she was looking at us.
I hesitate for a moment and then agree.
I've also been feeling like this inn is getting cramped.
And Misha's cooking is much better than the food at the restaurant.
It's healthier too.
"Then let's look for a place to move later. We have to prepare for the labyrinth for now."
"Okay!!"
Ordinary days follow.
We gather and make exploration plans, visit Rotmiller to resume our navigator lessons, occasionally go to the commercial district to check if there's anything we need to buy, and so on. Peaceful days.
As always, those days pass by quickly.
And…
"Let's go if everyone's here."
We gather at the bear-like man's bar, just like last time.
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.」
It's time to enter the labyrinth.
-x-X-x-
Inside a grand hall, located deep within the Noark fortress, a man was conversing with someone through a crystal ball.
"Amelia Rainwales. Have you found that explorer?"
[Not yet, Lord.]
"I see…"
It was the first regular report he received since the city's lockdown.
Although it was too early to expect any results, the Lord couldn't help but sigh.
But more bad news was delivered.
[But there's something I need to tell you.]
"What is it? Tell me."
[Starting this month, the royal family will be distributing specially crafted identification tags to explorers.]
"…Magic tools?"
[Yes.]
"Tell me more. You must have already looked into it."
The Lord then listened to Amelia's explanation about the 'identification tags' that the royal family was planning to distribute.
The more he heard, the more grim the situation seemed.
Identification tags personally designed by the royal family's Archmage…
"It would take us months to create something similar."
[Yes, I agree.]
"Thank you for the information. Focus on your mission and don't worry about this. I'll see you next month."
The Lord closed his eyes and fell into deep thought after ending the call.
And after some time…
"Ah, you're here."
He summoned the treasurer and first checked Noark's financial situation.
No, to be precise, he asked this:
"Treasurer, how long can we last without entering the labyrinth?"
"Three months, if we continue like this."
The situation wasn't good due to the aftermath of the last battle.
But they had never been ahead of them.
So this was a familiar situation.
Something their ancestors had also experienced.
"If we starve and endure? Then how long can we last?"
"…About twice that."
"I see."
The Lord nodded briefly.
And then he summoned his aide and gave him an order.
"Blockade the labyrinth until I give you further instructions. No one is allowed to enter."
"…There will be strong opposition. Do you know how long it will last?"
The Lord answered firmly,
"At least until we can create identification tags similar to the ones the royal family made."
It would be certain death if they entered before then.
So…
"We have to endure until they let their guard down."
They had to wait for the right time and endure.
And then it would surely come.
A single opportunity to change everything.
___________________
「The labyrinth is closed.」
「Character is being transported to Lafdonia.」
___________________
Light gradually filled my closed eyelids.
I opened my eyes leisurely, and a clear blue sky filled my vision.
The warm city air filled my lungs with every breath.
I could feel the passage of time throughout my body.
'It's already June…'
Six months had passed since that day I was exiled to Bifron.
Winter, which was like a joke compared to Korea, had long since ended, and now even the short spring was coming to a close.
'Interesting.'
It was March when I came to this world.
It's really been over a year since I arrived here.
I felt a strange sensation, just like when I paid my 1st-year taxes.
Honestly, my life on Earth was becoming increasingly blurry.
Well, it's only natural.
If you include the time I spent in the labyrinth, I've been in this world for almost two years.
"Hey, are you going straight back to the inn?"
"For now. Let's have a drink after we wash up."
"I'm back!!"
I dismissed my brief thoughts and checked my surroundings, which were no different from usual.
'Nothing happened this time either.'
I was curious about the other floors, but judging by the reactions around me, it seemed like there weren't any incidents.
Geez, making me worry for nothing.
Swaaa.
I looked down and checked my wrist.
The identification tag, engraved on my wrist like a tattoo, was already scattering into particles of light, even though it hadn't been long since I returned to the city.
Although it was a hassle to get a new one every time we entered…
…its performance was completely different from the previous identification tags, which could be easily stolen.
Coincidentally, those bastards from the underground city disappeared without a trace since these were introduced.
'…I thought it was about time for them to reappear.'
Earth and this world have completely different ecosystems.
A world without flowing rivers or fertile land for farming.
Both Noark and Lafdonia have to create food using magic stones from the labyrinth to survive.
'But it's already been 6 months without any news…'
I feel uneasy, especially since I heard from Fox at the Round Table last month that the large clans had formed an alliance to prepare for a surprise attack from Noark.
Where the hell are they hiding?
It's not like they have another way to obtain food besides magic stones.
"Mr. Yandel! Why are you so late?!"
Raven waved her hand from afar as I was organizing my thoughts while walking.
Even the bear-like man, who's always late, was already there.
"I had something to think about."
"Hmm, you could have done that while waiting in line…"
Geez, she's so obsessed with efficiency.
Anyway, I was the one who was late, so I apologized and got in line.
It only took a few minutes for the line to disappear.
After all, this is the 5th-grade checkpoint.
"Team Apple Nark, 5th grade… is that correct?"
It's one of the many changes that occurred in the past six months. I, Ainar, and Misha were promoted to 5th grade, and our team rank also increased by one level.
It was a bit of a hassle since we had to clear a guild quest to become 5th grade…
…but we cleared it together three months ago.
I judged that we would be underestimated if our rank was low, and being underestimated would lead to more trouble in this industry.
"Wow, they even give out candy here. Bjorn, did you know?"
"No."
I put the candy Misha unwrapped and handed to me in my mouth and sucked on it.
"Sweet."
Lafdonia, a city that's merciless to the weak.
I'm starting to feel like I'm being treated well wherever I go.
"So we're doing the settlement tomorrow, right?"
"Why are you asking something so obvious?"
"Ooh! Then let's go! Home!!!"
We exchanged the magic stones and left for the city.
Although the 5th-grade checkpoint even has bathing facilities for convenience, we didn't use them this time either.
Why bother when we can wash up at home?
"Then I'll see you guys at the bar tomorrow. Honey, I'm home!"
We disbanded in front of the bear-like man's bar to prevent him from getting lost and headed straight home.
It's a four-story building located in the inner area of the 7th district, just a 10-minute walk from the commercial city of Commelby.
We use the 1st and 2nd floor, and another explorer couple lives on the 3rd and 4th floor.
We rarely see each other since the entrances are separate.
"Ugh, home!"
It's a new house that's superior to our previous single-room accommodation in every aspect.
Actually, it's only been two months since we moved in.
It was a property we really liked, and the reason we were able to move in was because the previous tenants moved out at that time.
Ah, of course, we're renting.
The sale price was insane.
"We take a long time to wash up, so eat first if you're hungry!"
Ainar and Misha went to the bathroom on the 1st floor, which has a bathtub, and I washed up in the small bathroom on the 2nd floor.
Although it's small, it's still much better than our previous accommodation.
I chuckled as I lathered my body with soap.
'Maybe this is also a change.'
A spacious house with a kitchen.
Soap from a workshop, not mass-produced soap.
And an expensive bed I bought after splurging.
I've started to improve my quality of life here, instead of stubbornly saving every penny and desperately trying to return home.
But I don't want to think of it as an inefficient act.
I don't know how many years I'll be spending here.
No, with the Genesis Artifact gone, I don't even know if returning is possible anymore.
'And besides… I don't even know if I have to go back.'
I dried my hair with a towel, as if to shake off my weak will, and left the bathroom.
Swaaa!
It seems like the others are still washing up downstairs.
Although I'm hungry, Misha's cooking is much better, so I just sit on the sofa and doze off.
After some time…
"You woke up just in time. Come eat."
I look towards the kitchen, drawn by the appetizing smell, and the table is filled with food. It's mostly meat, as expected of a meal for two barbarians.
We chat while eating.
"Ah, right. Are you going to drop off the equipment today?"
"Of course. We have to take good care of it to use it for a long time. Gather it all after we eat, I'll go alone."
"Okay. But are we going to Hikurod's blacksmith again this time?"
"We should at least be his regular customers. It's not like it requires any special skills to check equipment."
The dwarf opened his blacksmith's workshop a while ago.
It's been about three months, and it seems like he's struggling to break even, as expected of a business that relies on regular customers.
Well, it seems like it's getting better.
"But about Hikurod… if his shop fails, he'll come back as an explorer, right?"
"Don't say that in front of him."
"Hey, are you crazy? I'm not that thoughtless. I'm just a bit worried."
"Huhu, Misha, why are you so worried? If he fails, we can just hire him as our butler!"
"Butler…?"
"Wouldn't Hikurod be fun!"
What does she think a butler is?
I don't know, but it's foolish to take a barbarian's words seriously.
We giggle for a while, talking nonsense.
"Then I'll go to the blacksmith's, you guys sleep first."
"Should I come with you?"
"It's fine. It's not like I'm going to do anything special."
I put the kids to bed and then head to the dwarf's blacksmith's workshop with the organized equipment. And after dropping it off for inspection and repair, I return home and lie down on the bed.
It's a super king-size bed that I bought after splurging 350,000 stones.
'Right, this is it.'
I close my eyes, satisfied with the unchanging comfort.
I suddenly remember the past.
Was it when we had to stay in Commelby because we missed the last carriage? Back then, I sighed, wondering when I would be able to sleep in a bed like this every day, saying I had a long way to go…
"...."
It's already been over a year since I came to this city.
I don't even flinch when I'm covered in blood anymore.
In fact, days without blood feel more awkward, and I don't even feel anything after killing people instead of monsters.
I ask myself before falling asleep.
Am I living a more humane life now than back then?
__________________
The nap that lasted until the next morning ended with Misha's visit.
"You said you were going out later, right? Wake up!"
"Ah, thanks."
"Do you want breakfast?"
"No, we're meeting and eating together."
"Ah, right?"
I wash up again and prepare to go out, and I hear snoring from the 1st floor.
It seems like Ainar is still sleeping.
Ah, for reference, Misha and I each have a room on the 2nd floor.
Although there are two rooms on the 1st floor…
Snore!
…she snores louder than me.
We're just using the remaining room on the 1st floor as a shared storage room.
"Then I'll see you at the bar later."
"Okay, have a good time!"
I leave the house after saying goodbye to Misha.
And I walk to Commelby, which is a 10-minute walk away.
After passing through the gate and walking for about 30 minutes, I reach the public transportation platform where we agreed to meet.
Raven is already there.
"You're late. It's been a while since I got off the carriage."
"…I think you just came early today."
"You're so perceptive. Come on, let's go. I'm starving."
After meeting up with Raven, we first have a meal at a restaurant we frequent and then dispose of the loot we earned from the last expedition by visiting various general stores and the exchange.
We earned more than usual this time.
It's thanks to a 5th-grade essence dropping in the other world inside the mirror we obtained by hunting a Millarodden.
"It might take a while for it to be sold, but I'll distribute it with my own money first and receive it later."
"Well, that's good for us, but are you okay with that?"
"What's there to be not okay about? It's just a hassle to wait until it's sold and then gather again to split it."
That's true, but we've always done it that way.
We judged that it was the least problematic method.
"…What's with that look?"
"Nothing."
"It doesn't seem like nothing."
"You're imagining things."
I try to suppress my laughter and walk straight ahead.
Come to think of it, she's also changed a lot.
She's still not very honest, though.
"It ended faster than expected. Let's go to the bar first."
We finish selling the loot and head towards the bar, our meeting place.
As expected, no one has arrived yet.
"This is better. We didn't have time to organize last time."
Raven orders drinks and takes out a piece of paper, then starts writing down the settlement details.
It takes longer than expected.
She always said it was nothing special when I asked.
"Thank you."
"…Hmm, suddenly?"
"You're always taking care of the annoying tasks for our team."
"I wouldn't have done it if there was at least one other person who could. Why don't you pay me for it?"
"Alright, I'll pay you. How much do you want? I'm sure everyone will agree."
"…No, thanks. Do you think I'll become rich from that?"
Geez, she would be much more popular if it weren't for that grumbling tone.
"Oh, I thought I would be the last one."
The bear-like man arrives, and the melee damage dealer duo also comes soon after.
And so, the settlement begins.
"It's 8.5 million stones per person."
We each receive a large sum of money thanks to the Millarodden dropping a mirror. I already paid back my debt two months ago, so all this income goes into my pocket.
"Then let's talk about other things."
After the settlement, we relax, eat and drink, and plan the next expedition.
Well, to be precise, it's more like an announcement.
"I'm not planning to go to the Hellfire Canyon anymore."
"Yes? Why?"
We've been hunting in the Hellfire Canyon for six months and entered the other world through the mirror three times.
And we finished exploring the 'Ash Gray Mountains' and the 'Lava Lake', which we couldn't clear before.
It wasn't that difficult.
We had the 'Orb of Fire', which blocks fire damage, and our combat power had increased significantly compared to when we first entered that place.
"Is there a reason to leave the place that's most compatible with us and go somewhere else?"
Raven expresses her concern at my decision, as if she's enjoying the Hellfire Canyon.
But this is non-negotiable.
"We can't stay on the 5th floor forever. It's time to explore other places."
We've obtained everything we can from the Hellfire Canyon.
So it's time to move on to the next chapter.
"So where are we going?"
"Frost Canyon."
"Uh, Frost Canyon…"
Misha glances at me, trailing off.
She knows it's a field where she might have an opportunity, unlike the Hellfire Canyon.
Well, she's not wrong.
Many essences that synergize well with Misha, who's ice-attribute, drop in the Frost Canyon.
And one of them is what I'm aiming for.
'Once I absorb that essence, we're done with the Frost Canyon.'
After that, I plan to level up in the remaining two fields of the 'Great Magical Forest' and then find a way to reach the 6th floor.
Well, it will take at least another year to get there.
'Still, we've come a long way.'
That's when…
Swaaa!
…the vine ring on my hand emits light.
"Bjorn, don't tell me…"
Unlike the first time, I don't try to deny it or deceive myself. I don't even try to reattach the vine by licking it.
It wouldn't change anything anyway.
「The activation condition for the Star's Blessing has been met.」
The second vine, which was blocking death flags related to the Dragonslayer, has broken.
Damn it.
-x-X-x-
[It's been a while, Miss Rainwales.]
Amelia involuntarily tilted her head as she received a call from the city through the crystal ball.
Because it wasn't the Lord's voice that was in her memory.
"…Old Man Alchemist?"
[Kekeke, it's an honor that you recognized me by my voice.]
"…How can you use the communication network?"
[I asked the Lord. I told him I had something to ask you and that it would be more convenient for both of us if I could speak to you directly. And I could hear your voice too.]
"I see."
It wasn't something she couldn't understand.
The alchemist was as important as the Lord in Noark. The Lord had no choice but to grant his request.
Amelia quickly got to the point.
"So what is it you want to ask?"
[Ah, it's nothing special. More importantly, how are you doing?]
"…You know that kind of talk doesn't suit me."
[You still haven't let go?]
Amelia kept her mouth shut, avoiding the question.
The old man, whom she had known since childhood, was one of the few people who knew her circumstances.
[Miss Rainwales, I have a guess as to why you accepted this mission. But it's time to let go. I'm sure your sister would also rather you—]
"Stop."
Amelia cut him off coldly.
"Enough with that, just tell me what you need."
Those who are left behind have their own roles to fulfill.
She didn't want to be interfered with, even by the old man.
[…Alright. Then let's get to the point.]
The alchemist then listed a few items he needed, and Amelia wrote them down so she wouldn't forget.
They were mostly alchemy ingredients like magic reagents.
Nothing special, but things that were difficult to obtain in Noark, which was under lockdown.
[How long will it take you to get them all?]
"A few days should be enough."
[Really? Then could you get me some Sleeping Flower Pollen a little earlier?]
"I can send it to you right now."
[Oh, do you have some?]
"…You already knew, didn't you?"
Sleeping Flower Pollen has a sleep-inducing effect.
Although the effect isn't that strong, she often used it because it could bypass poison resistance.
Not on her enemies, but on herself.
"I'll put it in the two-way subspace pocket as soon as we're done."
[Kekeke, then we're already done?]
The old man chuckled as if he was disappointed.
Amelia, who was about to end the call, stopped as a question came to mind.
"But… what do you need Sleeping Flower Pollen for?"
Amelia felt awkward asking that question.
Because she wouldn't have asked if it were normal.
She rarely asked others questions first. Especially if it was out of simple curiosity.
But…
"There are very few alchemy formulas that use Sleeping Flower Pollen."
…today was different.
She felt like she was missing something important.
[Ah, that?]
The old man's voice soon came through the crystal ball.
[It's for treating Dragonslayer, Regal Vagos. Ah, not for making medicine, but it would be easier to put him to sleep beforehand.]
"…Don't tell me you found a way to restore his memories?"
[Not that, I'm just planning to heal his broken body first. As you know, we need all the strength we can get right now.]
"I see."
Amelia let out a sigh of relief.
As long as his memories weren't restored, it wouldn't affect her, whether he recovered or not—
[Kekeke, but once his body recovers, I'm planning to try restoring his lost memories.]
Amelia froze.
[The method is so drastic that it's impossible in his current state. Well, the success rate is only about 50% since there aren't many samples.]
50% success rate.
It was an incredibly low probability to leave things to chance.
But it wasn't a big problem.
It would be fine if his body didn't recover.
"I see."
Amelia ended the call with that.
And she put the Sleeping Flower Pollen in the two-way subspace pocket as promised.
Coated with a deadly poison that destroys living tissue upon consumption.
___________________
The second vine broke.
I had let my guard down because it had been quiet for a while…
'What the hell is that bastard up to?'
A sense of urgency washed over me.
Because I wasn't fully prepared to meet him yet.
Although I had grown in many aspects, I was still just a 5th-floor explorer, not a 4th-floor explorer anymore.
But there's only one left now.
'6th floor. I have to get to the 6th floor as soon as possible.'
If I reach the 6th floor, there's a chance I can absorb that essence.
My second core essence after [Gigantification].
If I just obtain that, I'll be able to somehow go toe-to-toe with him—
"Mister!"
Huh?
"What are you thinking about so hard?"
I snapped out of my thoughts at Erwen's voice.
Could it be because we had such a long period of peace?
It wasn't even the last one, just the second vine broke, but I kept having anxious thoughts, making my mind complicated.
"Sorry. Where were we?"
"We weren't talking, I was asking what you wanted to order…"
"Ah, right."
I glanced at the menu and ordered some snacks and beer.
"This place hasn't changed at all."
Erwen muttered, looking at the employee who was returning after taking our order. I didn't have to ask what she meant.
"We've changed so much."
I was currently at a bar called 'Fidefuss', the place where we had our return drinks after my first expedition with Erwen.
So it was only natural for me to feel a strange sensation.
The barbarian who struggled on the 1st floor because he didn't have a companion had become a fairly famous explorer in the city.
Although I haven't gained fame, Erwen had also grown tremendously for someone who just finished her 1st year.
The change was evident just by looking at her equipment.
"This is our first time drinking together since then, right?"
"Ah, when I paid my 1st-year taxes?"
For reference, it was right after I moved.
So I was wondering where to meet her and decided on this place.
Misha would definitely be unhappy if I invited her to our house.
In the first place, I can't do whatever I want since it's a shared space with three people living together.
"Anything happen during this expedition?"
"…No, it was the same as before."
We started talking in earnest after the drinks and snacks arrived.
The main topic was catching up with each other.
We didn't have much in common anymore since our paths diverged, unlike before when she would visit every day.
"How's the atmosphere in your clan? I'm a bit curious. Any news?"
"Well? Even if there is, they wouldn't tell us…"
Erwen and her sister, who joined a clan they knew as mercenaries, were still exploring the labyrinth with them.
For reference, their area of operation was the 5th floor.
But we haven't encountered them in the labyrinth yet since we were only hunting in the Hellfire Canyon.
"By the way, I'm so annoyed. You know that guy I mentioned before? The one who keeps hitting on my sister? He's doing it to me now."
"You're having a hard time."
"Yes, he's a high-ranking member, so I can't just shoot an arrow between his eyes… I just have to endure it. Until I get everything I can and leave."
I realize that she's also changed a lot as we continue talking.
It's only been a little over a year since she became an explorer.
But she's no longer naive.
Well, it's only natural.
A year in the labyrinth is enough time to see all sorts of things.
"By the way, tell me now. You said you had something to say."
"Ah, that…"
Erwen hesitated for a moment and then spoke as I judged that the atmosphere was ripe.
"Do you remember? I said I still had a lot to learn from my sister…"
"I remember."
She also said she would join my team after absorbing everything from her sister within six months.
Well, it's already been more than six months since then.
I never brought it up first.
There was no room on our team, and besides…
"I thought you changed your mind since you didn't say anything."
I just thought it ended vaguely.
But was that not the case at all?
Erwen vehemently denied it.
"Wha, what are you talking about! There's no way I would do that. We're companions!"
Strictly speaking, my first companion was Hans A.
He was that 'Hatz' spirit or whatever.
"So what do you want to say?"
"That… it will take a little longer."
"What do you mean?"
"You, you're all 5th-grade, right? There's no room for me to squeeze in at my current level… Actually, I don't think there's any hope anymore… Ah, no, we're practically li, living together now…"
"What are you talking about? Speak clearly."
Erwen chugged down the rest of her drink at my words.
"I regret it. Back then… why didn't I accept your offer? I thought I would be able to close the gap quickly, but it's only widening…"
It was closer to a lament than a request.
But I think I understand what she's trying to say.
She wants to join our team, but she can't ask us to kick someone out.
Her specs aren't even better than the current members.
Hmm, so she hasn't changed her mind.
"Anyway, so what I'm trying to say is…"
"Stop."
I cut her off.
There was a misunderstanding I had to clear up first.
"I never intended to add you to the current team."
"…Yes?"
A brief silence fell.
Confusion appeared in Erwen's eyes a moment later, as her gaze darted around restlessly.
Tsk, that wasn't what I meant.
I said firmly before the misunderstanding grew any further,
"Erwen, I'm going to form a clan."
"A, a clan?!"
"Of course, not now, it will take a few months. But if you're okay with it, I'd like you to join—"
"Okay!! I'll join!!"
The answer came before I could even finish my sentence.
"No, but at least let me explain—"
"It's okay! I'm joining anyway!"
"…If that's the case. Anyway, this is a secret. I haven't told anyone on our team yet."
"Uh, so I'm the first one you offered this to…?"
Huh?
I tilted my head.
"Isn't that obvious?"
How could I make an offer without even mentioning that I'm forming a clan? In the first place, there's no need to even ask Misha and Ainar.
Raven, who's from the Magic Tower, will probably refuse.
I'm not sure about the bear-like man.
'He seemed to have some bad memories of clans.'
That's when…
"Hehe, hihihi!"
…Erwen started making a strange laughing sound.
__________________
The drinking party with Erwen, which started in the early evening, lasted longer than expected.
I was originally planning to just listen to her request and catch up, and then leave…
"What? The clan master is bald?"
"Yes, that's right. It was so hard to hold back my laughter when his wig came off during a hunt."
But our conversation was very entertaining today.
Is it because I haven't had alcohol in a long time?
Why is it so funny even though it's nothing special?
'Ah, the kids will be waiting at home…'
That thought crossed my mind, but Erwen kept bringing up interesting stories, so I couldn't find the right time to leave.
But it's really time to go back now.
"We, we should—"
"Ah, right!"
"Huh?"
"Did I tell you about the new essence I absorbed?"
What? She absorbed an essence?
I couldn't just leave without hearing about this.
"It has a really unique ability. And it suits me well."
"Stop beating around the bush and tell me. What did you absorb?"
I adjusted my posture and listened to Erwen attentively.
It was a 5th-grade essence.
Since it was an essence her veteran sister recommended, it was a perfect fit for her, a bow-wielding fairy.
'I don't have to remove this later.'
I thought I should help Erwen plan her build when I get back and asked her about the essence she absorbed.
"Wow, you know? Your eyes are sparkling all of a sudden."
Well, it's only natural.
I'm a player who loves this game more than anyone else.
"It's an essence that people say is very unique. I can't help but be curious about how it actually feels."
"But it's hard to explain. I can't show you…"
Hmm, that's true.
That's when, as I nodded in understanding…
"Um, so… mister."
…Erwen glanced at me, trailing off.
Her face was flushed, perhaps from the alcohol.
"Do you want to go upstairs and see my ability for a bit?"
…What should I do?
-x-X-x-
Most bars in this city also offer lodging.
In other words…
"Do you want to go upstairs and see my ability for a bit?"
…it meant she was suggesting we get a room and she would show me her ability.
It wasn't strange, as this had happened before.
But…
"I don't think that's possible."
"…Yes?"
I expressed my refusal firmly as I looked at the flustered Erwen.
"It's late. I have to go home."
Because I had a cat waiting for me.
"Show me next time you have a chance."
"Ah… okay!"
I know myself well.
As a gamer who's more interested in this world than anyone else, it was clear that I would stay up all night experimenting if I saw her ability.
"Ah, you're back?"
I parted ways with Erwen and arrived home, and Misha, who was reading a cookbook in the living room, approached me and sniffed.
"It seems like you didn't drink much."
"I didn't feel like drinking."
"Hmm, really?"
I felt uncomfortable making eye contact, even though I didn't do anything wrong.
Was it because I didn't tell her I was meeting Erwen?
Hmm, that seemed to be the reason, but I couldn't help it since she would have been unhappy if I told her.
I naturally changed the subject.
"By the way, where's Ainar?"
"She's sleeping in her room."
"…I see. You should go to sleep too."
Just as I finished the short conversation and was heading upstairs, Misha stopped me.
"Wait, sit over there."
Don't tell me she found out?
"It's good for your body to have something to settle your stomach before going to bed. It's nothing special, I'll just make some stew."
"Ah… thank you."
I sat down at the kitchen table as instructed.
Misha put on an apron and started cooking, and I silently watched her.
"...."
Her tail was moving.
Swish, swish.
As if she was annoyed.
My contemplation didn't last long.
"I met Erwen today."
I confessed honestly before missing the golden time.
"…Really?"
Her answer was a bit delayed, but her voice didn't sound surprised.
"…Are you angry?"
Misha chuckled at my question.
"…Angry? I would be if she were even a threat."
Misha said so and then dumped the pot full of stew into the trash can.
Her words and actions didn't match.
"Why…?"
"Ah, the seasoning wasn't right."
"I, I see?"
"Wait, I'll make another one."
Misha then made a new pot of stew and served it to me. And she said she was tired and went up to her room.
'…What was that about?'
I felt a sense of dissonance, but I ate the stew in my bowl. As always, it was perfectly seasoned for my taste, and I ate it all without any side dishes.
Misha failed to season the stew?
'There's no way.'
After finishing my meal, I roughly cleaned up and opened the trash can.
And…
"...."
…I froze, holding the lid of the trash can.
'…It's a good thing I confessed.'
The stew in the trash can was full of carrots.
She already knew.
From the moment she came up to me and sniffed, she knew who I had met today.
____________________
Time flows like water.
You can't stop it with your hands, and you can't turn back what has already passed.
Therefore, we only have one choice.
To somehow row our boat towards our goal.
'Right, let's start today.'
I got out of bed and looked in the mirror for a moment, motivating myself.
It's a gamer's know-how.
You have to do something like this to avoid getting tired of repetitive quests.
"Bjorn… oh, you're awake? Then can you wake Ainar up for me?"
"Okay."
My daily routine had been the same, almost like a repetitive quest.
Wake up at 7:00 AM, have breakfast with Ainar, prepared by Misha, and get ready to go out.
"Are you going to the library again today?"
"Why? Do you want to come with me?"
"No, it's fine. I'm going to take Ainar to the training center later."
After breakfast, Misha and Ainar go to the training center they have a monthly membership at to warm up, and I go straight to the library.
"Are you here for that book again today?"
"Ah, it's more interesting than I expected."
"Huhu, you should be grateful. I set it aside for you because I thought you would come."
I've been reading a long novel series lately.
Ragna recommended it, and it's much more interesting than I expected.
The content is also substantial since it's set in the labyrinth.
'Well, it's a bit unrealistic since all the characters are good people.'
But it's not unbearable if I think of it as a novel.
Honestly, it's a decent form of entertainment.
The problem with this world is that there aren't many hobbies besides drinking and partying.
"Then keep up the good work."
As always, I close the book I was reading and leave the library around 1:00 PM to have lunch.
The menu is a meat-filled lunchbox prepared by Misha.
I eat it by the fountain, and then it's time to meet Rotmiller.
"You're late today. About 30 seconds."
"...."
"A good navigator has to be aware of the weight of time. We'll start the lesson right away since you're late today."
It's already been over six months since I started receiving scout training from Rotmiller.
Honestly, I thought it would be over in a month or two.
But Rotmiller's knowledge is like an ocean. There's always something new to learn.
"It seems like you've mastered the basics, so let's move on to the advanced course."
"More importantly, what happened to what I said yesterday?"
"You mean about opening a training center?"
"Yeah."
It was Rotmiller who first mentioned the training center.
But the more lessons I receive from this man, the more I feel like it would be a huge success.
Navigation skills that anyone can learn, even if they don't have good ears like fairies, a good nose like beastmen, or the natural talent of a Guide.
Rotmiller's essence, the reward of his hard work.
It's already appealing, and on top of that, this man is a first-rate teacher, perhaps because he started from the very bottom.
'But this man has no idea of his own worth.'
Honestly, I don't understand why he hasn't done it yet.
Unlike the dwarf's blacksmith's workshop, it practically requires no initial capital.
"Think about it seriously. You've been doing nothing but relaxing for months."
"It's not relaxing, I'm taking time to cultivate myself."
"Then wouldn't it be even better to do it? There's a saying, 'you learn by teaching'."
"That's… hard to deny. Indeed, I've also learned quite a few new things while teaching you."
"So what's your answer?"
"I'm not ready yet."
I subtly click my tongue.
It seems like Rotmiller is reluctant to retire from active duty…
"Really? Tell me when you make up your mind. I'll help you."
"Anyway, thank you."
"I mean it."
Actually, I've already made a rough plan.
First, I'll rent a training center and use it as a classroom, targeting human children who want to become explorers.
And once it's established, I'll advertise at the Explorer's Guild and operate a separate class for explorers.
That would be more profitable.
Of course, it would take a long time to get it up and running…
'But Rotmiller is human.'
Humans have low taxes.
Once it's established and generates a certain amount of income, he won't have to worry about making a living.
'Well, it's all over if he doesn't want to do it.'
If capital is the problem, I'm willing to invest to some extent. The concept of stocks is still unfamiliar, but it's not completely nonexistent in this world.
It's also perfect for investment…
"That's all for today's lesson."
Anyway, today's lesson ends after a few hours.
It's around 8:00 PM.
Is it because it's the advanced course? The explanation was longer than usual, so it ended about an hour later.
"Then tomorrow… no, I can't come tomorrow."
"Let's meet in three days, just in case."
"Alright. Take care of yourself this time too."
Anyway, my daily routine ends here.
I often spend my evenings drinking with explorers introduced by the dwarf or the bear-like man, listening to industry news, or having a bonding time with my team…
But I don't have any appointments today.
And I've already taken care of my special bi-weekly routine, so my schedule is completely empty.
It's my first free time in a long time.
'Should I go back to the library? Or go to the training center and work out?'
I hesitate for a moment and then enter a random bar and order a drink.
Right, there should be days like this sometimes.
"Keuh."
I organize my thoughts, drinking lukewarm beer.
'There's really nothing going on these days.'
My daily routine isn't boring.
Honestly, it's comfortable and enjoyable.
But on the other hand, my anxiety grows.
Because I know that these dream-like days won't last forever.
'…But it's still okay for now, right? There wasn't anything at the Round Table.'
The Round Table gathering I attended two weeks ago wasn't much different from before.
Everyone looked at me with awe as I shared information while acting all serious, and I listened to the information they shared, pretending to be bored.
That was the entire event.
No one brought any interesting information that could pique my interest, and the gathering itself ended after just two rounds.
'Ah, was there really nothing strange?'
But if I had to choose one unusual thing from this gathering…
…it would be the Clown.
[Then I'll see you next month. Pfft.]
The Clown said goodbye for the first time when the gathering ended.
Not to me, but to the other members.
In a slightly meaningful tone.
'Does it mean something interesting will happen next time?'
Well, I don't know.
It could just be a whim.
After all, that's his character, and I'm not a prophet or a mind reader.
'I should get up now.'
I get up from my seat after about an hour of wallowing in self-pity and head home.
When I arrive, the melee damage dealer duo has already returned from the training center and is bickering.
Well, to be precise, it's more like Ainar is being scolded.
"Ainar! I told you to put your laundry in one place! Do you think you can become a great warrior like this?"
"That… I was going to do it later! I really wasn't trying to avoid it! Especially not because I was lazy!"
"This is your last warning. If you do this again, you'll have to wash your own clothes… Oh, Bjorn, you're back? What about dinner?"
"Not yet."
I drank, but I didn't order any food.
"Really? I'll make something quickly, so go wash up first. Hey! Ainar! Where are you going! I'm not done talking yet!"
"Tsk! She caught me!"
I then head to the bathroom, leaving Ainar, who's being scolded by Misha, and when I come out after washing up, the table is full of food.
It seems like she put in extra effort since it would be difficult to eat like this tomorrow.
"Thank you, Misha."
"Don't mention it…"
After dinner, we play card games that Misha bought from the market and spend time until late at night.
After all, it's better to sleep late today.
"The sun is rising."
"Next time, let's invite Beefcake and Aruru and play together!"
"Are you going to keep saying weird things? I don't know about Aruru, but Avman should be at home. He has a wife."
"Then we can just invite his wife too!"
What is she talking about?
I cut in and end the conversation before it turns into a pointless argument.
"Enough, let's go to bed. Try to sleep in as late as possible."
The labyrinth opens tomorrow night.
_____________________
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.」
_____________________
Pitch-black darkness.
It's an obvious phenomenon considering we just entered the labyrinth, but no one is flustered.
It's because we've experienced this several times since then.
"Liate."
A dimly lit light orb floats above our heads, illuminating our surroundings. The first thing I see is a Floor Stele located on the dead end wall.
"We arrived properly again. At this rate, I think we can consider it a law, not a special phenomenon."
The dimensional instability bug with a 100% success rate.
As always, Raven approaches the stele first and places her hand on it.
Is the mana flow structure when a portal is generated so unique that she can't get a sense of it after just one or two tries?
Of course, I don't know what she'll use it for even if she figures it out.
Is it even useful?
「Opened a portal for the first time. EXP +2」
Anyway, we enter the portal, and the unique musty air and the ground greet us.
Damn it.
「Entered 2nd Floor Beast's Lair.」
Of all places, we ended up here.
"Mr. Yandel, what are we going to do?"
"…We're going back down."
Even though I've been taking Rotmiller's lessons for over six months, this place is impossible.
There are too many forks in the road, and the rules are too complicated.
Even Rotmiller had to use his sense of smell to navigate this floor, and he even told me it was better to just give up.
"Then are we going to the Goblin Forest again?"
What else is there?
We return to the 1st floor and head towards the Goblin Forest, the route we've used the most. It's not that difficult to navigate the Land of the Dead or the Rock Desert…
But this route is the fastest.
"You might be able to get portal opening achievement points too. We're going to move quickly, so follow me closely."
I took out the compass and started navigating.
We left the dark zone without getting lost even once, and then we continued moving along the shortest route, crossing the border between the dark zone and the normal area.
I didn't even have to ask the bear-like man for the portal's location.
I've mastered the Crystal Cave now.
Thud.
That's when, a little over 2 hours after entering the labyrinth…
"Mr. Yandel."
…Raven stopped me, riding on Ainar's back.
"So, something's strange."
"…Strange? What do you mean?"
"Mana is swirling in the center. As if dozens of people are casting a joint spell…"
A joint spell refers to a method where mages link their unique mana to cast high-level magic or amplify the power of a specific spell.
For reference, it's often used in large-scale raids.
But to think it's being used on the 1st floor…
"…I can also feel dark magic. The aura of cursed magic."
And even dark magic is being used.
The situation is serious.
"…It must be Noark, right?"
"Yes. It's common knowledge that there are many dark mages who are affiliated with Noark."
"I thought it was too quiet. This is troublesome."
"Wh, what are we going to do?"
Raven, as if scared of the current situation, showed a side of her that was unlike her usual calm self.
Right, the more that's the case, the more I have to get a grip.
"Nothing changes. We'll increase our speed. We're getting out of the 1st floor as quickly as possible."
I quickly gave the order and resumed moving.
About 5 minutes later…
"Something's coming from behind!"
The moment Raven shouted…
Whoosh!
…a red light from the passage behind us grazed past us and disappeared into the distance.
There wasn't even time to dodge.
"…What the hell was that?"
"I, I don't know. It seemed like mana…"
I feel a sense of dread.
A magic spell that even Raven doesn't know.
"Um, Bjorn… wouldn't it be better to keep moving?"
We continued forward, following Misha's advice, and I started analyzing the situation.
There were no clear answers.
Maybe that's why…
"We… will be okay, right?"
…I couldn't answer that question, even though I knew what a leader's role was in times like this.
"...."
In this uncertain situation…
…one thing was clear.
The peaceful days that felt like a blessing…
…had come to an end.
-x-X-x-
We're moving forward slowly, cautiously observing our surroundings.
It's a change that occurred a few minutes ago.
We stopped running towards the 2nd floor and started focusing more on safety.
It was an unavoidable choice.
Because fog had engulfed the entire cave.
"…I've heard of this. It's dark magic. They said dark mages used it during the subjugation."
My heart beats slowly.
Thump!
Our visibility is only about 5 meters, even though Raven is using wind magic to clear the fog.
It's difficult to deal with danger in this environment.
This isn't a game where everything is just HP and MP.
A single mistake can lead to death.
And there's no 'retry' button.
Thump!
I have to stay alert.
To return alive without losing anyone.
"Mr. Yandel…"
We were too weak to protect ourselves.
That's why we lost a companion.
It was a crisis we couldn't overcome otherwise.
Then what about this time?
'Right, we're much stronger than back then…'
I engrave the positive aspects in my mind to prevent my body from stiffening with tension.
That's when…
"Mr. Yandel!"
"Don't shout."
"Then answer me quickly."
"So what is it?"
Raven, riding on Ainar's back, asks cautiously.
"Is going to the 2nd floor the right choice?"
"What do you mean?"
"There are a lot of royal knights who entered. And many large clans too. Wouldn't it be safer to join them?"
It's not a completely unreasonable suggestion.
No, if we were near the starting point, I would have definitely chosen that option.
But in the current situation…
…it doesn't seem like a good choice.
And there's one thing I need to correct.
"Raven, more than half of the large clans didn't enter the labyrinth."
I heard it from Fox at the Round Table.
The large clans that were dissatisfied with the royal family started a large-scale boycott.
Well, some of them backed out after realizing that the royal family was making a list of those clans…
But it wouldn't be a significant number.
"…At a time like this."
No, they did it because of this situation.
"Avman, which direction?"
I continue navigating, confirming the portal's location with the bear-like man. It's another change that occurred after the fog engulfed the cave.
The compass stopped working.
"…Will it be okay if we just find the portal?"
"It won't be safe just because it's the 2nd floor. But we just have to reach the 4th floor."
The Tower of Heaven is an independent floor.
If we just get there, we'll be able to return to the city safely, even in the midst of this war.
As expected, that's our best option—
"No. I meant, what if there's no defense at the portal?"
"What do you mean?"
"Literally. If I were a Noark tactician, I would first find a way to block the path to the 2nd floor."
That's… true.
But what am I supposed to do about it?
We have to at least try.
We're already in the outermost area thanks to the dimensional instability phenomenon.
"If it's impossible to go to the 2nd floor… what are you going to do?"
Raven keeps asking me questions, unlike usual. It seems like she's also feeling uneasy.
Well, she needs someone to rely on.
She's inexperienced in this area.
"Then we'll join the people from the city, as you said. In the first place, there's no other way."
I try to speak calmly.
Although I don't know if it's really the best option, at least someone has to do it.
"If you understand, let's keep moving."
"Okay…"
That's when, as we're heading towards the 2nd floor as quickly as possible…
"We're finally meeting someone. Do you guys know what's going on?"
…we encounter explorers.
A team of three humans and two beastmen.
Their equipment is about the same level as ours, or even better.
Well, they wouldn't be low-level explorers if they're here at this time.
Our strength would increase significantly if we joined forces.
But there's something I need to confirm first.
"Identification tags first."
Are they trustworthy?
____________________
"They're real."
"Then would they be fake?"
We first confirm that we're all from the city by checking the identification tags engraved on our wrists.
And we naturally start talking.
Normally, we would have gone our separate ways after confirming the identification tags…
…but it's clearly an emergency situation.
"Do you guys know anything?"
"Not much. Just that Noark is up to something."
"Noark… as expected."
I narrow my eyes, looking at the leader of the other team as he nods at my words.
"Don't you have a mage on your team?"
It's a well-known fact that there are few mages in Noark.
"As you can see."
But the leader shrugs confidently.
"We're a team that aims for achievement points. There's no need for a mage."
Damn it, that actually makes sense.
Mages usually don't participate in speedruns.
They would just be a burden because of their slow movement speed, and mages can't gain experience points from speedruns anyway.
Therefore, we introduce ourselves.
"I'm Bjorn, son of Yandel."
I figured that if he had any fame, I might have heard of him, just like how I have the title of Little Balkan.
"I'm Hansen Kelders."
"Hansen?"
"Oh, do you know me? Maybe we know each other through someone—"
"I don't think so."
I shake my head.
Although I flinched because the name sounded ominous, I've never heard of it.
Then what should I do?
Just as I'm contemplating, Hansen whispers something to his companions.
"Little Balkan? Ah! The barbarian from the Floor Master incident!"
It seems like one of them knew my title.
Hansen's gaze becomes a bit more favorable.
"Now that I see it, you're a famous guy, huh? How about we move together? It doesn't seem like either of us is in a situation to be exploring leisurely."
Hansen's team proposes to join forces.
"Can you give me some time?"
"A few minutes, if that's all. I'm not comfortable staying in one place for too long."
I ask for Hansen's understanding and then have a discussion with my companions.
There's a saying, 'two heads are better than one', right?
Maybe they noticed something strange that I missed.
"I don't know. It seems like it would be safer with more people… but I think it's better to do whatever Bjorn wants."
"I'm the same as Misha!"
The melee damage dealer duo expresses their intention to follow my decision.
The bear-like man is against it.
"Something's strange. If they're at that level, they should be famous, but I've never even heard of that name? Even if they're not from the underground city, they might be marauders."
This is a bit concerning.
The bear-like man has the widest connections among us.
"Raven, what do you think?"
"I, I don't think there's anything strange. So wouldn't it be better to just join forces? Their identification tags were fine."
Hmm, right, that's true.
I was secretly relying on Raven the most, but it seems like I need to change my thinking.
Is it because this is her first time experiencing something like this?
She's not as sharp as usual.
"Forget about the identification tags and just look at the people."
"Yes? What do you mean… ah!"
Raven's eyes widen as she realizes the meaning of my words.
Considering the current situation, it's foolish to just trust identification tags.
There's a chance they've created counterfeits.
There are two possibilities.
They couldn't create counterfeits and are acting out of desperation.
Or they succeeded in creating counterfeits and are boldly making a move, trusting in them.
I don't know which one it is yet.
Therefore, I have to trust my gut and make a decision. Just like when I played [Dungeon and Stone], where you get a game over if you die once.
"I, I don't know. Mr. Yandel, please decide."
Raven leaves everything to me, as if she's confused.
What the hell happened to her mental state?
"Raven, get a grip. You were fine even when there was a hidden assassin next to us in the Tower of Heaven."
"Th, that was different. If I make a mistake now, other people will be harmed."
Ah, so that was it.
I learned something new about Raven.
I can't believe she can't make a decision when she has to take responsibility for others.
Someone might die because of my judgment.
It's not an easy burden to bear and make a decision.
This isn't a game.
It's not just a matter of a character dying.
'Damn it.'
In the end, the decision is up to me.
It's nothing new, but…
'This is troublesome.'
I sigh and look at Hansen's party, who are standing a distance away.
If they had a mage…
Or if they were explorers I've heard of, or a team from a famous clan…
Then I would have trusted them more easily.
'But they're neither.'
Unfortunately, time is short.
"Have you made a decision?"
"Yes."
I finally make up my mind.
"Sorry for making you wait, but I'm refusing your offer."
My final decision is to not gamble unnecessarily.
"Really? That's a shame."
Unexpectedly, Hansen nods without any sign of displeasure. It seems like he already understands my reasoning.
"The cautious ones survive longer. I hope we'll see each other again."
"What about you guys?"
"We're going to the 2nd floor. I'm not sure if it's safe there either, but it's better than here."
"I see. Let's meet in the city if we have the chance."
"What are you doing? Let's move."
The short conversation ends, and Hansen's party leaves first, disappearing into the fog.
Did I make the right choice?
Smirk.
I force a smile as if to erase my doubts and anxiety.
When did I ever make a choice knowing the outcome?
"Let's go too."
We have no choice but to trust and move forward.
_________________
About 5 minutes after parting ways with Hansen's party, we find five corpses.
They're not from Hansen's party.
Although they're naked, as if their equipment was looted, it's not a problem to confirm their identities.
"It's a knight."
"…A knight?"
"Yes. The tattoo on the back of his neck. It's the emblem of Viscount Terten's family."
"To engrave their family emblem… it's like a brand."
To be precise, it's like they're not even people, but objects.
Is that why?
I feel a bitter taste in my mouth.
It's a stark reminder that even knights are treated as consumables in this world.
"…Not all noble families are like this."
I organize my thoughts, ignoring Raven, who's speaking defensively.
The corpse of a knight and four soldiers.
And the surroundings, devoid of any signs of battle.
It means one thing.
"There's a monster out there."
"Yes. Judging by the wounds, they were all killed in one blow. And the wounds are identical, so it doesn't seem like they were attacked by multiple people."
Knights, who use Aura, are the strongest in PvP, the swords that protect the privileged in this world where magic and abilities exist.
But to think they died without being able to do anything…
It makes me realize that we've entered the eye of the storm.
A knight who probably spent his entire life wielding a sword and enjoying immense authority died like an extra.
No, they're probably still dying.
Just like during the Noark subjugation that took place in the underground a few months ago.
"Time of death?"
"About 20 minutes ago."
Right, so it's not like he's right next to us.
It's a positive clue, but it's too early to relax.
Anything could happen from now on.
"Are those bastards… really planning to start a war?"
The bear-like man frowned and muttered.
It seemed like he finally realized the gravity of the situation after seeing the knight's corpse.
Well, we haven't fought anyone yet.
I said firmly,
"They're not planning to, Avman."
"...."
"The war has already begun."
We're lucky to be in the outermost area.
So we haven't experienced the aftermath directly yet.
Well, it's just a matter of time.
"What are you going to do?"
I sighed at Raven's question.
I've lost count of how many times she's asked me this since we came down to the 1st floor.
We're at a crossroads again.
"There's nothing but a portal in this direction."
"You don't have to explain. You're saying that bastard who killed this knight went that way."
The only escape route I judged to be possible, the 2nd-floor portal.
A monster is lurking there.
But even if we turn back, the situation is grim. The battle that started in the center will soon engulf the entire 1st floor.
'Damn it, we shouldn't have come down to the 1st floor, even if it meant going through the Beast's Lair.'
I can't help but regret it.
I can't believe that trivial choice put me in this shitty situation.
It's like the cruel world is testing me.
Do whatever you want.
But you're responsible for the consequences.
I involuntarily look at my companions.
"...."
Misha, Ainar, Raven, the bear-like man.
They're also looking at me.
As if to say the choice is mine.
"…Let's go back."
I finally make a decision.
I don't know who's ahead of us.
It might even be a member of Orculus.
There can't be many people at that level even in Noark.
Just as I'm about to turn back…
"Ha, are you really just going back?!"
…I hear a voice from beyond the fog.
Thud.
Footsteps follow.
Swaaa!
Raven immediately dispels the fog with a gust of wind.
A man is revealed.
A man wearing a simple black outfit, with no visible equipment.
He's wearing a skull mask.
"What kind of barbarian is so timid? Huh?"
My body freezes at his voice.
It's a voice I've never heard before.
That much is certain.
But…
"Pfft."
…it's familiar.